QuestBridge Application Information

Tufts University is proud to be a QuestBridge partner college

QuestBridge is a national non-profit organization that connects high-achieving, low-income students with some of the country’s best universities. Students interested in learning more about QuestBridge and the National College Match should visit http://questbridge.org. See below for frequently asked questions about QuestBridge.

I am a QuestBridge National College Match finalist. What materials do I need to send to Tufts?

A complete application to Tufts through the National College Match will consist of the QuestBridge Application, including one guidance counselor recommendation letter and one core subject teacher recommendation letter, your official high school transcript, official scores for the SAT and two subject tests or the ACT, and senior year progress report/grades when available. Finalists for the Match who have not had the opportunity to complete SAT Subject Tests may still be considered for admission, with the expectation that the tests will be taken later in the senior year. See below for details about what is required to apply for financial aid.

Can I apply to Tufts through the National College Match if I am not a US Citizen?

How does the application process work for undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students?

Tufts’ core values include a commitment to equal opportunity, inclusion, accessibility, and diversity. Therefore, Tufts welcomes all undergraduate applicants regardless of citizenship status. Undocumented and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students who apply to Tufts are treated identically to any other U.S. citizen or permanent resident in their high school. Undocumented and DACA students should follow the same application procedure for all domestic applicants to Tufts. Tufts meets 100% of the demonstrated need of all admitted students. While procedures for financial aid vary between domestic and international applicants, undocumented and DACA students are considered for domestic, need-based financial like any other U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Because federal financial aid is not available for undocumented and DACA students, Tufts provides institutional financial aid in its place.

Is the National College Match binding at Tufts?

Will Tufts accept standardized test scores taken in October or November of my senior year?

Unfortunately, October ACT scores and November SAT Subject tests will not arrive before decisions have to be made in the QuestBridge National College Match program. However, finalists for the Match who have taken the SAT but have not had the opportunity to complete SAT subject tests may still be considered for admission, with the expectation that the tests will be taken later in the year.

Can I have an interview if I apply through the National College Match?

Unfortunately, the tight timeline of the National College Match does not allow for finalists to participate in Tufts' optional interview process. During regular decision, QuestBridge applicants are welcome to request an interview. In your application portal, there is a link to registration for an interview once you complete your application.

I am a QuestBridge Finalist, but was not matched with Tufts. Can I still apply?

Yes, you will need to submit the Common Application to be considered for admission.

If Tufts is your first choice, you may want to consider applying during Early Decision Round 2. This is a binding commitment with an application deadline of January 1, 2017. You will receive an admissions decision in early to mid-February.

Is there an application fee?

There is no fee to apply to the National College Match. During Early Decision or Regular Decision Tufts’ $75 Application Fee can be waived for QuestBridge Finalists. You may have the application fee waived by submitting either i) a written request from your college counselor or school official who can attest that the fee would represent a financial hardship, or ii) a College Board Request for Waiver of the Application Fee form. Send these waivers to undergraduate.admissions@tufts.edu with your name and high school that you attend.

How does financial aid work for QuestBridge students who are admitted through regular decision?

Tufts meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need of all admitted students, making the school a very affordable option for low-income families regardless of the method of application. To learn about financial aid and the related deadlines, please visit the website of our financial aid office here: http://students.tufts.edu/financial-services.